Jeff's Asia Tech Class

Follow Jeff's Asia Tech Class
Share on
Copy link to clipboard

Executive education in China’s tech leaders and on the strategies and tactics of Asian digital combat. Jeff’s Asia Tech Class offers: -A weekly lecture you can listen to as a podcast at the gym or in the car or wherever. -A weekly article with more in-depth material. -2-3 weekly updates on what’s…

Jeffrey Towson

Donate to Jeff's Asia Tech Class


    • Jun 1, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • every other week NEW EPISODES
    • 46m AVG DURATION
    • 251 EPISODES


    Search for episodes from Jeff's Asia Tech Class with a specific topic:

    Latest episodes from Jeff's Asia Tech Class

    3 Take-Aways from My Visit to Tencent (249)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2025 34:48 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about my visits to Tencent. Which is becoming much more about AI.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to our Tech Tours.My 3 take-aways:WeChat Has Way More Functions That I Knew. They Have 26 Years of Experience Messengers.Tencent Is “All In” on Yuanbao, Hunyuan LLM and AI Cloud.Merchant and Enterprise Services Are Expanding and Upgrading. Think Microsoft meets OpenAI.--------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    From Learning and Adaptation to Intelligence (248)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2025 42:01 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about learning and adaptation as a core capability. Which is becoming much more important with AI.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to our Tech Tours.6 Levels of Rate of Learning and Adaptation.Tactics: Such as marketing, inventory and assortment, store layout, pricing, churnCustomer retention, customer segmentation and other more complicated questions.Adapting current products and services. Such as personalization. New products and services. And technologies.Internal processes.Business models.4 Rate of Learning and Adaptation Capabilities:Signal CapabilityExperimentation CapabilityOrganization CapabilitySystem Capability--------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    The 6 Pillars of Huawei's “Cloud for AI” Strategy (247)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 16, 2025 44:03 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about Huawei's AI strategy. Specifically it's "Cloud for AI" approach to hardware and infrastructure.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to our Tech Tours.—–I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    The Audience Builder Platforms Behind YouTube, TikTok and Instagram (246)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2025 48:07 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about audience builder platforms.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to our Tech Tours.Here are the main points:Misconception 1: Audience Builder Platforms Are Just Content Hubs with LibrariesMisconception 2: Audience Builder Platforms Are Highly ProfitableMisconception 3: Audience Builder Platforms Get You “Winner Take All” DynamicsMisconception 4: Audience Builders Have Two Main User Groups – Creators and ViewersMisconception 5: A Content Library Is a Barrier to Entry -----------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    Lessons from My Visit to Alibaba Cloud (244)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 19, 2025 49:23 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about my visit to Alibaba Cloud headquarters in Hangzhou.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to our Tech Tours.Here are the main points:1-Social and community platform commerce. Livestreaming (entertaining plus impulse shopping)Community platforms. Interest based social commerce.2-Discovery-driven customer experiences and conversational search. Not keywords. Focus on discovery phase and impulse purchases.AR/VR (image search is easy version)Hyper personalizationAI0driven browsing and conversational search3-Tools to level the playing field Chatbot for CSRLLMsContent generation for marketing  ——–I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    Lessons from My Visit to Baidu Headquarters (243)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2025 29:08 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about my visit to Baidu.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to our Tech Tours.--------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    Lessons from My Visits to Xiaomi and Unitree Robotics (242)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2025 53:01 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about my visits to Xiaomi and Horizon Robotics.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to our Tech Tours.Lessons from XiaomiConsumption ecosystem. Car, person, homeHigh performance managementRapid manufacturing build out as a capability. Cheap. But also fast and flexible. Upgrades. Increasing combined with software and AILessons from UnitreeBig jump in agility.Limited use cases for them today.Programmed in simulation and downloaded. Sim to Lab. ML at edge, vs download vs connectivity----------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    An Introduction to WeRide (241)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2025 36:14 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about WeRide. And about real-world AI.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to our Tech Tours.Major Factors:Tech capabilities and progressCommercialization and adoption of productsEconomies of scopeManagement performance-----------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    Horizon Robotics and the Rise of Chinese AVs / Real World AI (240)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2025 58:00 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about Horizon Robotics. And about real-world AI. Especially when coming out of China.I am also trying to figure out how ecosystems of developers can become strengths for business. Especially when amplified by open-source.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to our Tech Tours.------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    The Huawei Trifold Smartphone is Awesome. Why Is Huawei More Innovative than Apple? (239)

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 22, 2025 41:56 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about Huawei's next products. And why they are so much more innovative than Apple.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to our Tech Tours.-------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    Start Launching AI Agent Pilots ASAP (238)

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 6, 2025 45:17 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about what businesses should know about AI Agents.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to our Tech Tours.---------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    The China Tech Tsunami: How DeepSeek, BYD, TikTok and Others Are Replacing US Tech Leadership (237)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 26, 2025 47:26 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about the recent wave of Chinese tech companies that is shocking Western businesses and politicians.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to our Tech Tours.The mega-trends that matter here are:Rising Chinese consumersManufacturing scaleBrainpower behemothMoneyHere is DeepSeek. You can try it for free here:chat.deepseek.comAnd you can try Alibaba's Qwen here.https://chat.qwenlm.ai/You can try Kling AI here.https://klingai.com/———-Related articles:BYD Is Going for Global EV Leadership (1 of 2) (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)A Strategy Breakdown of Arm Holdings (1 of 3) (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:EV AV AutoRoboticsGenAIFrom the Company Library, companies for this article are:BYDUnitreeKuaishou / Kling AIHuaweiBaidu AI CloudAlibaba CloudMiniMax / Hailuo AIDeepSeek------------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    The 4 Engines of Alibaba's AI Plus Ecommerce Empire (236)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 18, 2025 35:50 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about Alibaba.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to our Tech Tours.Here are the 4 engines:Re-Igniting Growth in Their Now Re-Organized Ecommerce BusinessAccelerating the Build Out of their Global Smart Logistics Network – Starting with Cross-Border Express DeliveryBig Investments in Alibaba Cloud. With Price Cuts to Push Adoption.Pioneering New and Game Changing GenAI Services---—I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    5 Things Everyone Gets Wrong About Economies of Scale (235)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2025 31:52 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about economies of scale.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to our Tech Tours.Here are the 5 things everyone gets wrong:1 -  Not breaking economies of scale into its multiple types2 – Overlooking the Negative Impact of a Non-Circumscribed and / or High Growth Market3 – Not Understanding Minimum Efficient Scale, Indivisibility, and Scale Differentials4 - Impact of Digital Disruption5 – The Need for Demand Side Competitive Advantages-----------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    3 Lessons from My Visit to Trip.com (234)

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 26, 2024 33:37 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about my visit to Trip.com in Shanghai.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to our Tech Tours.-------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    Why Threads Might Beat X-Twitter After All (233)

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 23, 2024 42:16 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about Threads (Meta Facebook) vs. X (Twitter).You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to our Tech Tours.——I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    3 Take-Aways from My Interview with Alibaba Cloud (232)

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 14, 2024 31:23 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about my interview with Dongliang Guo, Head of International at Alibaba Cloud.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to our Tech Tours.Here are my 3 take-aways:Take-Away 1: Alibaba Cloud is Focused on the Infrastructure and Model Layers. It Is Differentiating its GenAI with an Open-Source Ecosystem (i.e., ModelScope) and Model Building Tools.Take-Away 2: Southeast Asia Cloud Computing is Being “Fixed”. And Also Reshaped for GenAI.Take-Away 3: GenAI Has Surprising High Impact Use Cases Everywhere.Cheers, Jeff-------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    Extreme Personalization: How GenAI Can Supercharge Customer Improvements (231)

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 8, 2024 35:43 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is my playbook for Extreme Personalization. And how generative AI can supercharge never-ending customer improvements.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to our Tech Tours.Here is more on 4 stages.Unlock the Secret to Customer Obsession: The Extreme Personalization Playbook (1 of 3) (Tech Strategy)Extreme Personalization Playbook Stage 2: Build Your Repeat and Retain Machine (2 of 3) (Tech Strategy)————-I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    3 Ecommerce Lessons from My Visits to China's Digital Leaders (230)

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 2, 2024 33:24 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is what I learned about ecommerce from my visits to China's leading players.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to the Tech Tours.Lesson 1: GenAI Is accelerating and intensifying the fight for attention and ecommerceLesson 2: Cross-Border ecommerce is a big opportunity that is growing. Chinese companies are leading.Lesson 3: Discounts and promotions are still king in ecommerce. Ctrip is awesome at this.—–—-I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    How Cainiao Will Win in Smart Logistics Everywhere (229)

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 22, 2024 38:27 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about how Cainiao is expanding internationally with smart logistics.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to the Tech Tour.--------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    Why Beauty Ecommerce and Beauty Tech Are So Attractive (228)

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 15, 2024 38:10 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about why I like beauty ecommerce. And beauty tech.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to the Tech Tours.There are five points.An attractive space. With lots of interesting consumer behavior.PremiumizationFragmentation and changing competitionInnovation and Digital DisruptionLots of dimensions for digital to impact. Content (think TikTok). Also education.ExperientialSocialPlus hardware and science innovationData driven Personalization—–—-I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    Why Every Business Must Run a Personalization Marathon (227)

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 8, 2024 37:29 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about personalization and never-ending customer improvements. This is a key operating activity. And sometimes it is a digital marathon that can create an operating advantage.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to the Tech Tour.Here are the 4 steps to start personalizing.Step 1 is DOB3 (Digital Core) and DOB 6 (people, culture, teams). Do organizational change.Step 2 is to identify 3-4 Use Cases:These will impact different functions differently.Step 3 is to have an ROI within 6 months.Step 4 is to get the process to 5-7 days.Here are the 6 types of customers (from BCG).Brand advocatesMulticategorySingle-category regularsDeal seekersDisengagedLapsedHere are the 4 levels of personalization and customer improvements.Level 1 - Personalization PlaybookLevel 2 - Upgrade to Wow Experiences.Also move beyond just sales transactions. Do experience managementLevel 3 - Upgrade to complementary services. Bundles. Consumption ecosystems.Level 4 – Add AI services. This is where the Rate of Learning Marathon really matters. Watch for machine learning operating flywheels.————–I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    Tribe and Belief Network Effects Have Gone Digital (i.e., Why Everything is Now Political) (226)

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2024 38:31 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about how non-rational behavior plays out products / services, consumer behavior and network effects.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to the Tech Tour.Point 1: Digital is super-charging consumer products, experiences and behaviors. Especially when it is about psychology and emotion. And not just utility.Point 2: The most powerful version of digitally supercharged consumer products rise to the level of share of the consumer mind. A competitive advantage. Point 3: Products / services are increasingly being boosted by a degree of connectivity. This is usually described as community. Or interactivity. Point 4: Tribal and belief behavior can have a big impact on consumer experience. Sometimes rising to the level of SCM.Point 5: Tribal (shared identity) and shared belief behavior can increase retention. Sometimes rising to the level of Switching Costs. Point 6: Tribal (shared identity) and shared belief behavior can Sometimes rising to the level of Network Effects.Final Point: Digital tools are making tribal and belief effects more sophisticated, surgical and powerful. That is why it is showing up in everything.--------------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    My 6 Questions for Network Effects. And Its 4 Big Effects. (225)

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2024 36:38 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about network effects. And my 6 questions to look for.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to the Tech Tour.Here are the 4 network effects questions:What is the asymptotic scale?What is the minimum viable scale?What is the shape of the curve?What is the scale differential with rivals?Here the 4 network effect effects:Network effects can cause rapid increases in the real or perceived value and/or utility to customers. A product or service that increases in value TO THE USER is great. And this is usually what we are talking about with network effects.This is usually thought of as consumers. Or business customers. But it can also be for other user groups, like content creators and developers.This doesn't necessarily mean growth. You can have a great and improving service in a small or flat market.Network effects can increase economic value. This is not the same thing as customer value (real or perceived). If a platform business model has attractive unit economics and growth potential, then you can see increasing economic value and shareholder returns with network effects. But not always. You can have a fantastic service with increasing customer but not economic value (by network effects)Network effects can create a competitive advantage. This is demand side economies of scale as a moat. This is what collapses the market to a monopoly or oligopoly. However, this doesn't necessarily mean the creation of economic value. You can dominate an unattractive business. And it doesn't necessarily mean growth. You can dominate a stagnant business.Network effects can create a barrier to entry. In digital, this is mostly by indirect network effects, which have a chicken and egg problem. That is hard for new entrants to overcome with an incumbent present. There is less of a barrier to entry with direct network effects. We also see barriers to entry in physical networks which require lots of tangible assets. Replicating a railroad is almost impossible in a developed country.--------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Photo is AI generatedSupport the show

    Why TikTok Is More Powerful than Netflix. 5 Lessons from Consumer Video. (224)

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 5, 2024 41:48 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about TikTok vs. Netflix. And how consumer behavior combines with digital tools in the video space.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to the Tech Tour.Here is the interview with Jonathan Haidt. And his book the Righteous Mind: Why Good People Are Divided by Politics and ReligionHere are the 5 lessons:Lesson 1: High Frequency Video MTV Was More Powerful Than Long-Form TV StoriesLesson 2: Digital-First Netflix Crushed Cable TV with Selection, Price, and ConvenienceLesson 3: Interactive YouTube and Streaming Was More Powerful than Passive VideosLesson 4: TikTok Trumped Netflix Using “Endless Dopamine”Lesson 5: Machine Learning-Centric Video TikTok Was Also Superior for Consumers and CreatorsHere are the 5 mentioned content typesEducationStory tellingMindless entertainment. Including things like comedy.News / PoliticsSports—---I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    3 Lessons from the Fall and Maybe Rise of Coinbase (223)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2024 46:37 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about Coinbase, which has been coming back in terms of share price and revenue.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to the Tech Tour.Coinbase and the Tech Uncertainties of Platform-Protocol Hybrids (3 of 3)(Tech Strategy – Daily Article)After the Fall of Crypto, Is Coinbase an Opportunity? (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)---------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    5 Reasons Travis Kalanick's CloudKitchens Is Better Than Uber. In Theory. (222)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2024 36:09 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about CloudKitchens, the new venture of former Uber CEO Travis Kalanick. And why I think it is a better business model than Uber. In theory.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to the Tech Tour.Here is the interview with Travis on the All in Podcast about this business.———I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    Is Profitable Kuaishou an Investment Opportunity? (221)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2024 36:25 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about Kuaishou. And the key questions that determine its future.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to the Tech Tour.Here are my three longer-term questions for Kuaishou.What is the future relationship with Tencent? As it relates to users and engagement?Economies of Scope. Does it need to move beyond video to other content and attention types. Like TikTok and Tencent have done.Economies of Scale. Is it subscale in video and entertainment? As a China-only business?Here is a past article on this. Kuaishou Is Finally Profitable. But Is It Too Small to Win Long Term? (Tech Strategy)Support the show

    Porter's Five Forces and Why You Shouldn't Be an Influencer / KOL (220)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 6, 2024 33:42 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about Ruhnn Holding, KOLs / Influencers and Michael Porter's Five Forces.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to the Tech Tour.Here are some factors to consider when assessing the bargaining power of buyers.Concentration of buyers: Purchase size: Differentiation of products or services: Switching costsPrice sensitivity: Informed buyers: Here are some factors to consider when assessing competitive rivalry.Number of competitors: Industry growth rate: Fixed costs: Exit barriers: Undifferentiated products / services: Here are some factors to consider for New Entrants.Economies of scale:Product differentiation: Capital requirements: Access to distribution channels. Government regulations: Switching costs: Here are some factors to consider for assessing the Threat of Substitutes.Availability of substitutesAvailability of close substitutes (i.e., “the sense that products are similar”): Relative price performance: Customer willingness to go elsewhere: Here are some factors to consider for Supplier Power.The number and concentration of suppliers: Uniqueness and differentiation: Switching costs: Forward integration: Industry importance: --------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    Can Bilibili Get to Sustainable Scale and Profits in Specialty Video? (219)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2024 42:11 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about Bilibili and its choice between staying with specialty video or going mass market video service.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to the Tech Tour. ----------Related articles:When Microsoft's Bundles Are Good vs. Bad for Customers and Markets (Tech Strategy)Microsoft's 3 Big Upgrades to its 2 Platform Business Models (2 of 2) (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)What is Elon Musk's Plan to 10x Twitter? (2 of 2) (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:Audience Builder PlatformDigital Attacker StrategyVideosFrom the Company Library, companies for this article are:Bilibili--------------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the Show.

    The 3 Growth Engines of Lazada (218)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2024 40:10 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about Lazada and the current state of ecommerce in Southeast Asia.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to the Tech Tour.--------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the Show.

    Fans, Collectors and Gamblers: The Consumer Behaviors of Pop Mart (217)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2024 55:41 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about Pop Mart and its ability to tap into really interesting consumer behaviors.Fan and enthusiast behaviorCollecting behaviorGambling and rewards behaviorYou can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to our management sessions with the latest consumer-facing innovations by China's digital leaders (here).Here is the link to the Tech Tour.Correction: In the podcast, I talked about Jake Paul being a Pokemon fan. I meant Logan Paul.Here's my summary of Pop Mart in one graphic.———-I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the Show.

    How Ashley Dudarenok Founded and Grew to 2 China-Focused Businesses (Growth Tactics Podcast)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 4, 2024 32:34 Transcription Available


    Today's podcast is part of a new series on Growth Tactics, where we talk to digital businesses that are winning. And dig into what worked and what didn't.This episode (located here) is an interview with Ashley Dudarenok, the founder of Alarice (China-focused digital marketing agency) and ChoZan (China digital transformation consultancy.Ashley (www.ashleydudarenok.com) is a naturalized Chinese serial entrepreneur, award winning digital expert and book author, recognized by Thinkers50 as a “Guru on fast-evolving trends in China”. Ashley and her team help world's top companies and brands to learn for and from China. She's also a sought after professional speaker covering topics around customer centricity, the future of retail, technology in action. Ashley is the author of 11 books on digital China.Here are some contact links:LinkedIn  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleydudarenok/YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/ashleydudarenokTwitter/X https://twitter.com/AshleyDudarenokIt was a fun discussion with quite a few valuable lessons.Here is an article summarizing my 5 lessons from the conversation.5 Lessons in Digital Growth from Serial China Entrepreneur Ashley Dudarenok (Growth Tactics)——I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the Show.

    5 Things I Love About the HubSpot Business Model (Sort of) (216)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2024 44:30 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about HubSpot and the really cool aspects of its business model.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to the Tech Tour.Here are the 5 things I like about the business model:Software bundles. Especially integrated. Especially with freemium pricing.Recurring revenueSwitching Costs: Financial, Procedural, Relational and RiskThe ecosystem with network effects (in theory). A Developer Flywheel in practice.Sales and Marketing Flywheel --------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the Show.

    Is GenAI Disrupting Salesforce? (215)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2024 40:54 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about Salesforce and how generative AI is going to impact its business. You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to the Tech Tour.Here are my 3 working conclusions.GenAI is going into their existing services, which are used by teams at their clients. Salesforce is well positioned for this.GenAI is going to get incorporated into the workflows of their clients. This requires an AI tech stack, which Salesforce does not have. AI Cloud companies are building this and offering it as a service. This is a problem.AI Agents are emerging and this will change the workforce of CRM within companies. This is a big problem for Salesforce. Competitor Microsoft is well positioned here. --------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the Show.

    The 3 Steps of a Digital Attacker Strategy (214)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2024 37:32 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about a common playbook for a digital attacker (whether a digital native or incumbent).You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to the Tech Tour.Here are the 3 steps of the digital attacker strategy.Step 1: A new digital tool enables a superior service to emerge. This is used to break into an existing business. This often causes an unbundling of the existing offerings.Step 2: Existing value chains get transformed. Everyone scrambles to grab the valuable positions.Step 3: The new leaders add services, complements and bundles.------------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the Show.

    Mastering Tech Investing: 4 Lessons from Constellation Software (213)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2024 40:58 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about Constellation Software. And their approach to software investing.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to the Tech Tour.On the Constellation webpage, they actually list their criteria for both “exceptional” and “good” companies. Here's what they say.Exceptional businessesMid-to-large vertical market software businesses. With greater than $1M EBITDA.Consistent earnings and growth. Constellation has a good equation for this:EBITDA/Revenue + Revenue Growth = 20%Experienced and committed management.Good businesses#1 or 2 in a niche vertical marketRevenue over $5MHundreds or thousands of customers“Unimposing” competitorsConstellation is an interesting company to follow if you invest in tech companies. Just follow their transactions. They do lots of them and you can learn a lot.Cheers, Jeff-------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the Show.

    How Beauty Brand Depology Grew to $20M in Ecommerce Sales in 3 Years (Growth Tactics Series)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 3, 2024 33:10 Transcription Available


    Today's podcast is part of a new series on Growth Tactics, where we talk to digital businesses that are winning. And dig into what worked and what didn't.Our first episode is an interview with Alex Lee, the CEO and co-founder of beauty brand and DTC ecommerce site Depology.After years of struggle as a small ecommerce site, Alex pivoted to beauty and skin care products in 2019. And then grew rapidly to $10M in revenue in ten months. And within 3 years, Depology had grown to $20M in sales.That's awesome. I talked with Alex about how they did it. What growth tactics worked? Which didn't?It was a fun discussion with quite a few valuable lessons. Plus, it's great to see a former MBA student of mine doing so well.----------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the Show.

    Why Microsoft's Bundles Are So Powerful. As Slack Found Out. (212)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2024 44:39 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about Microsoft and how they use bundles to beat competitors. As Slack found out.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to the Tech Tour.Here is the link to the All In Podcast mentioned. The Microsoft discussion happens at 1 hour and 3 minutes.—–I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the Show.

    Can You Build Barriers to Entry with GenAI and Intelligence? (211)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2024 42:50 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about where GenAI and intelligence capabilities can create barriers to entry (not competitive advantages).You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to the Tech Tour.—–--I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the Show.

    My Generative AI Playbook: Step 2 (210)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 20, 2024 43:17 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is Step 2 in my playbook for CEOs and investors in Generative AI.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting. —---—I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the Show.

    iQIYI's Playbook for Tech-Empowered Entertainment (209)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2024 31:13 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about iQIYI's tech strategy.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Cheers, Jeff---------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the Show.

    Lessons from Visits to JD, iQIYI and Huawei (208)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2024 23:22 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about our Beijing Tech Tour. And my 3 main lessons.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.My lessons are:JD is flooding money into logistics tech. Increasingly globally.Huawei is showing the future for turnkey digital infrastructure.iQIYI likely the future business model for movies and tv.Cheers, JeffSupport the Show.

    Alibaba's Generative AI Strategy (207)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2024 42:06 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about Alibaba and what they are doing in Generative AI.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Cheers, Jeff--------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the Show.

    Forget the “Sharing Economy”. Watch for Disruptors in Access vs. Ownership Businesses. (206)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2024 27:28 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about ownership vs. access business models. It's a good framework for thinking about digital disruptors such as Airbnb, Uber and Mobike.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.———-I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the Show.

    Watch Out for Huawei in GenAI Data Architecture. And Baidu in Agent Builders (205)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 26, 2024 38:04 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about two interesting parts of the new GenAI Tech Stack. The data infrastructure layer. Where Huawei is a leader.Agent and model building. Where Baidu is a leader.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.——-I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the Show.

    How to Build GenAI into Operations - Part 2 (204)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2024 39:22


    This week's podcast is Part 2 on my framework for AI Strategy. Part 1 was in Podcast 203.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting. Which has the details for the Beijing Tech Tour. -------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    A Framework for GenAI Strategy - Part 1 (203)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2024 44:07


    This week's podcast is a framework for thinking about AI Strategy. And an intro to the AI Tech Stack.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.——-I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    The 3 EV Business Models of BYD, Xiaomi and Tesla (202)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2024 34:11 Transcription Available


    This week's podcast is about how auto companies are changing into digital business models. Specifically, it is about three archetype business models we can see in BYD, Xiaomi and Tesla.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.The 3 EV business models are:EV Business Model 1 (i.e., BYD) is “Manufacturing Plus Services”. That's Autos Plus Auto Services. Plus Linked Battery Manufacturing.EV Business Model 2 (i.e., Xiaomi) is a “Manufacturing Plus a Consumption Ecosystem”. That's Auto (Plus Auto Services) Plus Digital Services”.EV Business Model 3 (i.e., Tesla) is “Manufacturing Plus AI Services”----------Support the show

    The 4 Pillars of Baidu's AI Cloud Strategy (2 of 2) (200)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2024 40:12


    This week's podcast is part 2 of a deep dive into Baidu Cloud, a leading provider of cloud and intelligence services. And arguably China's AI leader.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here are the four pillars:Pillar 1: Baidu AI Cloud Is an Innovation Platform Pushing to Reach Critical MassPillar 2: Baidu AI Cloud Is Also Moving to Become a Technology Standard Deeper in the AI Tech StackPillar 3: Baidu's AI-Focused Cloud Has 2 Advantages Over Other Innovation PlatformsPillar 4: Baidu's AI Cloud Is a Flywheel in Industry-Specific Intelligence ------------I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    Why iQIYI Is the GenAI Innovator to Watch in Video Entertainment (199)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 7, 2024 41:15


    This week's podcast is a deep dive into iQIYI's activities in generative AI, which is a natural evolution from their long focus on digital transformation.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.———I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

    Claim Jeff's Asia Tech Class

    In order to claim this podcast we'll send an email to with a verification link. Simply click the link and you will be able to edit tags, request a refresh, and other features to take control of your podcast page!

    Claim Cancel